Skip to Main Content
 

Global Search Box

 
 
 

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Mental Heath Experiences of Transracial Adoptees of the Global Majority (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color - BIPOC).

Brako, Phebe
http://orcid.org/0009-0001-7044-4999
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1742226271139279

Abstract Details

2025, Ph.D., Antioch University, Antioch Seattle: Counselor Education & Supervision.
This qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of transracial adoptees of the global majority (BIPOC), focusing on their bicultural identity integration and its impact on mental health. During semi-structured interviews, nine participants shared their stories of navigating cultural and racial dynamics as adoptees in predominantly White adoptive families and communities. The findings revealed six core themes: (1) the Quest for Bicultural Identity Formation, (2) Cultural Integration and Adaptation, (3) Navigating Racial and Cultural Tensions, (4) the Role of Family in Cultural Integration, (5) the Importance of Community and Support Systems, and (6) Mental Health and Therapeutic Experiences, addressing the complex interplay of identity, mental health challenges, and the healing potential of culturally responsive therapy. This study underscores the need for increased cultural competency in adoptive parenting and mental health interventions to better support the unique experiences of transracial adoptees of the global majority. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).20
Stephanie Thorson-Olesen, PhD (Committee Chair)
Porshia Daniels, PhD (Committee Member)
Susan Branco, PhD (Committee Member)
153 p.
Counseling Education; Counseling Psychology; Mental Health; Minority and Ethnic Groups; Multicultural Education; Personal Relationships; Therapy
phenomenology; bicultural identity integration; transracial adoption; adoption; mental health; cultural identity; cultural tension; transracial adoptee; adoptee mental health

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Brako, P. (2025). Mental Heath Experiences of Transracial Adoptees of the Global Majority (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color - BIPOC). [Doctoral dissertation, Antioch University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1742226271139279

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Brako, Phebe. Mental Heath Experiences of Transracial Adoptees of the Global Majority (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color - BIPOC). 2025. Antioch University, Doctoral dissertation. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1742226271139279.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Brako, Phebe. "Mental Heath Experiences of Transracial Adoptees of the Global Majority (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color - BIPOC)." Doctoral dissertation, Antioch University, 2025. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1742226271139279

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

antioch1742226271139279
44
© 2025, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Antioch University and OhioLINK.
Release 3.2.12